Homa Bay County has successfully wrapped up the validation phase of the National Youth Opportunities, Training and Advancement (NYOTA) programme, with 8,275 young applicants across all eight constituencies confirmed eligible. The exercise, conducted smoothly and without any reported irregularities, saw Homa Bay Town recording the highest participation at 1,675 youths, followed by Karachuonyo with 1,475 and Ndhiwa with 1,315. Other constituencies, including Kabondo Kasipul, Rangwe, Kasipul, Suba North, and Suba South, also saw robust turnout as the county moves closer to empowering its youth population.
The NYOTA initiative, spearheaded by the national government, aims to equip young Kenyans aged 18 to 35 with vocational skills, internships, and business start-up support to enhance employability and entrepreneurship. The validation process was a critical step in confirming applicants’ eligibility, verifying documents, and ensuring authenticity of personal details. Homa Bay County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi praised the smooth operation, attributing its success to the coordinated support from National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and local officials. He noted that the turnout reflects growing enthusiasm among the youth for government-led empowerment initiatives.
The programme’s three-pronged approach includes On-Job Experience, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and Business Support, targeting a broad spectrum of young people. Selected beneficiaries will gain mentorship, technical training, and grants to kickstart entrepreneurial ventures, while also being encouraged to save a portion of earnings to ensure financial discipline. With the final list of verified youths expected soon, Homa Bay’s youth are set to access training, funding, and business opportunities, positioning the county to benefit from a more skilled and economically empowered generation in the coming months.